The Hokkoku Road and Unnojuku Post Town

Eastern Nagano Area 北国街道海野宿

Description

Unnojuku originated in 1625 as a 12-inn stop on the feudal Hokkoku Road which connected the Sea of Japan side with the Tokyo-to-Kyoto Nakasendo Road. Gold from the mines of Sado Island as well as pilgrims to Nagano City’s Zenkoji Temple passed by here. Strolling through Unnojuku gives you a sense of the rich history. Events are held every year to keep alive the traditions of the feudal area, including a procession of festive pillars in April and the Unnojuku Fureai Festival held on November 23rd which features rickshaws and people in period costumes.